Changing times

When considering remodeling a home with a traditional style, the first impulse is to stay true to the existing aesthetic, regardless of whether it is one you prefer or not. You can though, with the right touch, change the lookcompletely without fear of compromising the whole.

The owners of the kitchen featured on these pages were looking to create a light-filled, open space out of their existing enclosed kitchen, says HammerSmith designer Eric Rothman.

"The owners were remodeling their whole house to give it a contemporary update and were looking for a kitchen that was infinitely workable. It needed to be modern, sleek, clean, have ample work space, be easy to maintain and have plenty of light, both natural and artificial."

The solution was to integrate the previously divided breakfast area with the kitchen, and create one large, open-plan kitchen that increased not only in size but also functionality.

As the owners frequently entertain they needed a kitchen that would make it easier to cater for a crowd, without having a stark, commercial feel.

Rothman came up with a design that literally balances the two requirements. For example, a stainless steel range and hood on one side of the kitchen are balanced with a corresponding pantry in maple, stainless steel and sandblasted glass on the other.

"The result is a refined, modern kitchen that two cooks can use on a day-to-day basis, as well as for entertaining."

Story by: Trendsideas